WHEREAS, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that begins early in childhood and consists of a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication; and
WHEREAS, ASD affects at least 1 in 59 children and an unknown number of adults in the United States of all genders, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds; and
WHEREAS, early, accurate diagnosis and appropriate education, intervention, and therapy are vital to the well-being of those with ASD; and
WHEREAS, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reports have shown a significant gap in the identification of ASD in white children and in Black and Hispanic children; socioeconomic barriers, stigma, and lack of access to healthcare have made it more difficult for Black and Hispanic communities to receive crucial services necessary for identifying and treating ASD; and
WHEREAS, individuals with ASD should have access to the care, services, and opportunities they need to be happy and to achieve their greatest potential; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina joins in recognizing and raising awareness of the need for more research, better understanding, and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder, and to commend the efforts of those working to support individuals with ASD disorders and their families;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim April, 2021, as “WORLD AUTISM MONTH” and April 2, 2021, as “WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS AND ACCEPTANCE DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.